History

In the exhibition reflecting the history of Valga city and county, you can see wax figures of people who were the first in Estonia including the first Estonian mayor of a city, the first Estonian headmistress of a girls' gymnasium, and the first Estonian Olympic champion. 

Johannes Märtson was the first Estonian mayor in in the world, holding power in Valga from 1902 to 1917.

Marta Pärna was one of the first Estonian headmistresses, leading Valga Girls' Gymnasium from 1908 to 1932.

Alfred Neuland was born in Valga and became the first Estonian ever to win an Olympic cgold medal.

The glass display you can admire priest's clothing of the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church. As the first Orthodox congregation during the religious conversion movement in the province of Livonia was established in Valga County, there is also a short overview of religion exchange history.

In the displays nearby, there are objects from different eras, ranging from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. You can also have a look at the informative board on the history of Valga County local authorities and their borders.

One of the most significant and also the deadliest battles in Estonian War of Independence history that took place in Valgamaa is the Battle of Paju. The battle is depicted through a copy of M.Maxolly's painting "Battle of Paju" by artist Aapo Pukk. There are also some weapons from that time, the names of the fallen, and an overview of the battle's course.

The room dedicated to one of the darkest events in Estonian history – massive deportations – portrays the means of deportation (which actually were cattle wagons) in March 1949. The same room features a nature painting of Siberia by artist Aapo Pukk and photos of deportees in Siberia.

The museum's silver collection and the history of Valga banks are showcased in the vault room of the former Valga Bank (1921–1940). Central to the display is the safe that has stood here since the building's early days. The showcases exhibit coins from different eras, including from the Kuigatsi Vasila treasure, as well as badges, memorabilia, tableware, and jewelry.

A separate room addresses the development of the railway and postal roads. Two large maps present the horse postal roads and railway lines covering Valga County, illustrated with numerous photos. The displays contain items related to both the railway and postal road, with a milestone visible among them.

In the section of the the Soviet period, visitors have the opportunity to recall or acquaint themselves with the coats of arms of the former Soviet republics, souvenirs and toys from that time, military and militia uniforms, a notorious photo of the Valga tank, a mosaic portrait of Lenin, etc.